Coal

Coal fuels in india

Coal remains a crucial and affordable energy source for India, with substantial reserves and a significant contribution to the country’s energy mix. It fuels a large portion of India’s electricity generation and is expected to continue playing a major role in the foreseeable future. 

Key points about coal as a fuel in India:

  • Dominant Energy Source:Coal accounts for a significant portion of India’s energy needs and fuels over 70% of the total electricity generation. 
  • Substantial Reserves:India possesses considerable coal reserves, contributing to its affordability and making it a primary energy source. 
  • Future Demand:While renewable energy sources are increasing, coal demand is projected to continue rising, likely peaking between 2030 and 2035, although its share in the energy mix may eventually decline. 
  • Types of Coal:India has various types of coal, including bituminous, subbituminous, lignite, and anthracite, with bituminous coal being the most commonly used for electricity generation. 
  • Production and Distribution:India has achieved significant coal production milestones, with public and private sector undertakings contributing to the sector. 
  • Major Coal Producing States:States like Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and West Bengal are major coal producers and have large coal reserves. 
  • Nationalization:Coal mines in India were nationalized in the 1970s. 
  • Power Generation:Coal-fired power plants generate a large percentage of India’s electricity. 
  • Energy Mix:Coal remains a vital part of India’s energy mix, alongside other sources like hydro, nuclear, and renewables.